Kentucky Justice Association

11/03/2026

At the 2026 KJA Annual Convention and Judicial Forum, KJA presented Britney Jones, founder of The Chad Lake Foundation, with the Consumer Safety Award.

After the preventable loss of her brother, Britney turned grief into sustained advocacy for people affected by substance use disorder and incarceration. Through The Chad Lake Foundation, she champions humane treatment, effective recovery services, meaningful opportunities after release and access to legal representation.

Britney’s advocacy offers a powerful reminder that civil rights do not stop at the prison door. Please join us in congratulating her on this well-deserved honor.

10/21/2026

KJA was honored to present Judge Charles C. Simms III with the 2026 Henry V. Pennington Trial Judge of the Year Award during the 2026 Annual Convention and Judicial Forum.

For more than two decades, Judge Simms has served Kentucky’s 10th Judicial Circuit. He has presided over numerous civil and criminal trials in Nelson, Hart and LaRue counties, along with high-profile cases throughout the region.

Attorneys and litigants know Judge Simms as prepared, hardworking, respectful and fair. His service reflects the integrity and respect for trial practice that represent the highest ideals of Kentucky’s judiciary.

Please join us in congratulating Judge Simms on this well-deserved recognition.

10/19/2026

KJA proudly presented Stephen M. O’Brien III with the 2026 Peter Perlman Outstanding Trial Lawyer Award during the 2026 Annual Convention and Judicial Forum.

For more than 50 years, Steve has served injured people, including clients whose cases were complex, costly or unpopular. His career reflects the courage to take difficult cases, the discipline to prepare them well and the determination to see them through.

Steve’s appellate advocacy has helped shape Kentucky law and protect access to justice. Beyond his own cases, he has taught litigation skills, mentored younger attorneys and generously shared his knowledge with KJA members.

Steve has shown throughout his career that strong advocacy and professional civility go hand in hand. Please join us in congratulating him on this distinguished honor.

09/24/2026

Brad Cosgrove is taking the stage at the 2026 KJA Annual Convention and Judicial Forum! We’re excited to hear the practical insights and proven strategies he’ll share with our attendees.

07/26/2026

The perfect Chicago backdrop overlooking the Chicago River and great company atop the St. Regis Terrace for the KJA Happy Hour during the AAJ Annual Convention. Special thanks to Ringler Associates - Brad Cecil and Ryan Christen Oliphant for sponsoring the evening.

06/30/2026

Congratulations to KJA Past President Robert Mattingly on being named a 2026 Brandeis School of Law Alumni Fellow as part of the University of Louisville's Wilson Wyatt Alumni Awards! This honor recognizes alumni who have distinguished themselves through exceptional professional achievement and service.

Rob has dedicated his career to protecting the rights of individuals across Kentucky while generously giving back to the legal profession, including KJA, through his leadership, mentorship, and service. As a Past President of the Kentucky Justice Association, he has made a lasting impact on our organization and our members.

Please join us in celebrating one of KJA’s own on this well-deserved recognition.

Congratulations, Rob!

June 29, 2026 | Chris ’90 and Lisa Dischinger ’11, co-founders of LDG Development, have been named the 2026 Alumni of the Year

05/13/2026

KJA President Chris Rhoads announced a leadership transition for the Kentucky Justice Association today.

After more than 30 years of dedicated leadership, Maresa Taylor Fawns will transition from the day-to-day leadership of KJA and continue serving the association as Chief Lobbyist. We are grateful for her lasting impact, steady leadership, and unwavering commitment to protecting the Seventh Amendment.

Griffin Link Gillis has been named the association’s next Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2027.

Please join us in celebrating both Maresa’s incredible legacy and Griffin’s new leadership as KJA continues building for the future.

05/01/2026

The KJA Executive & Professional Team has been busy studying the field, analyzing the odds, and making their picks for tomorrow’s big race. 🏇

Now it’s time to see who everyone is backing for the Run for the Roses. Who’s your pick?

To our fellow Kentuckians and everyone visiting from around the world, we wish you a safe and happy Derby Weekend! 🌹

04/27/2026

Happy Birthday to KJA President, Chris Rhoads!

Thank you for your leadership, dedication, and continued commitment to KJA and protecting the Seventh Amendment.

Join us in wishing Chris a wonderful birthday!

04/23/2026

Closing out a great evening at the KJA Justice Tour Happy Hour in Louisville at Watch Hill Proper. Thank you to everyone who joined us, and a special thank you to Ringler Associates - Brad Cecil and Ryan Christen Oliphant for sponsoring the evening and supporting KJA members across the Commonwealth.